Villagers' health concerns

Melea Tagi, 50, of Naivurevure Village cleans her house after the recent flood in Naitasiri. Picture: IVAMERE ROKOVESA

ABOUT 1000 villagers from the Waidina District in Naitasiri fear for their lives after the two-day flooding experienced in the Central and Eastern divisions.

The three villages, Wainawaqa, Nabukaluka and Naivurevure, faced the full brunt of the flooding which left behind debris that could take about a week to clear.

Naivurevure Village headman Ilai Kuli said since a majority of the houses were underwater, villagers had been advised to boil all drinking water and prevent their children from swimming in rivers and creeks.

"From yesterday, some of the children have experienced cough and fever," Mr Kuli said.

"We fear that this might be the cause of the two- day flooding but we have also advised parents to take them to the health centre as soon as possible.

"It's really hard to put together bits and pieces from here because plenty houses and belongings were destroyed."

Mr Kuli said the last time they experienced such flooding was during Cyclone Kina way back in 1992.

Wainawaqa Village headman Joseva Cakau said about 5000 new dalo plants which were planted a few weeks ago and 1000 ginger plants were destroyed.

"About 180 people have been affected and most of them had most of their belongings either washed away or damaged."

Nabukaluka Village headman Jone Roko said 11 families were affected and they were mainly those who lived closest to the river.